Types of Psalms Table

30:title the house The Hebrew word used here, habbayith, literally means “house,” and most likely refers to the temple, God’s house (5:7).

Of David See note on 3:title.

30:1 I will exalt you The term rum used here means “to raise up” or “to exalt.” The psalmist lifts Yahweh up in praise because Yahweh lifted him up from his distress.

30:2 O Yahweh, my God The psalmist affirms that Yahweh (God’s personal covenant name) is his God.

The Name Theology of the Old Testament

30:3 Sheol The Hebrew word she’ol is used here. See note on 1 Kgs 2:6.

Old Testament Theology of the Afterlife

the pit A synonym for Sheol. See note on Ps 28:1.

30:5 there is a moment While Yahweh’s anger (aph) lasts only for a short period of time (Isa 54:7), His favor (ratson) is permanent.

in the morning Just as night becomes day, the psalmist’s sorrow has become joy. The morning often represents restoration or blessing in the psalms (Ps 90:14; Lam 3:22–23).

30:6 I shall not be moved ever In a previous context of prosperity and security, the psalmist incorrectly trusted in his wealth, assuming it would preserve him from any trouble (see Ps 10:5–6 and note).

30:7 by your favor The psalmist recognizes Yahweh’s favor gave him prosperity. When Yahweh removed His favor, the psalmist became distressed.

30:9 What gain is there The psalmist argues he would be unable to praise Yahweh or tell others of His faithful restoration if he were dead; it would be better for Yahweh to deliver him (see 6:5 and note).

30:11 You have turned my wailing into my The psalmist returns to his praise of thanksgiving as he describes the faithful restoration Yahweh provides.

dancing Represents a joyous celebration (Jer 31:13).

sackcloth A sign of morning. See note on Neh 9:1.

30:12 so that I may sing praises to you The term lema’an used here means “on account of” or “for the sake of.” This seems to signal that Yahweh has restored the psalmist and turned his mourning into dancing so the psalmist could sing His praise (see note on Ps 30:9).